Chapter 76

Clara’s hand was completely wrapped up in Ethan’s. He was leading her down the hall toward Linda’s hospital room. Clara yanked his arm back. "Ethan, just because I’ve been cold to you doesn’t mean you get to use my mom against me, okay?" She didn’t even pause to think—it just slipped right out. Because that was exactly what she'd believed. After hiding away for the past month, she’d heard all the rumors Ethan had let loose. So in her mind, it all added up. He was just trying to break her down little by little. "Fine. If you want me to play the sweet wife just to make you feel better, I can do that too," she said with a sarcastic smile, her voice suddenly soft and almost coaxing—like she was playing along. Her tone made it sound like she was about to switch roles and take the lead. Ethan stared at her change like he hadn’t expected it. He went quiet for a second. "So that’s really what you think of me, Clara? That I’m that low?" Clara’s lips parted as if to answer, but Ethan cut her off